Kogi State Governor, Alhaji Ahmed Usman Ododo, has vowed to eliminate criminal activities in Yagba West Local Government Area.
He assured the residents that his administration will not relent until peace is fully restored.
The governor made the declaration on Monday during a visit to Isanlu-Esa, one of the communities recently troubled by kidnappings and killings along the Okunran–Okoloke–Isanlu-Esa axis.
The violent incidents have heightened fear and tension among locals, prompting urgent security interventions.
Welcoming the governor, the Commander of the Nigerian Army in charge of the operation, Brigadier General K. U. Sidi, applauded the joint efforts of the Army, Navy, Air Force, Police, Department of State Services,DSS, and other special forces in tackling insecurity in the area.
He credited the success of recent operations to the logistics and support provided by the state government, adding that the “invaluable contributions” of the Hybrid Force from the Office of the National Security Adviser had further strengthened the campaign against criminal elements.
Traditional ruler of Isanlu-Esa, His Royal Highness Oba Olufemi Ogunremi Theophilus, described the governor’s personal visit as a mark of responsible leadership.
He urged the security agencies to sustain their presence until banditry and kidnapping are completely rooted out.
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The royal father also appealed to the Federal Government to rehabilitate the major road leading into the community to ease movement and improve security operations.
Governor Ododo, in his remarks, praised the courage of the security agencies and expressed sympathy to families who lost loved ones in recent attacks.
“Let me thank you for your efforts at ensuring security in this area. Your synergy has made your assignment easier, and I am always ready to provide all necessary support to triumph over criminality,” the governor stated.
He assured residents that he remains committed to his constitutional duty of protecting lives and property. Paying tribute to officers who died in the line of duty, Ododo promised that their sacrifices would not be forgotten and pledged government support for their families.
The governor also cautioned traditional rulers against indiscriminate allocation of land to unknown individuals, warning that mining licence holders must henceforth be properly profiled by the government and security agencies to prevent criminal infiltration.
Accompanied by top state officials and heads of security agencies, Ododo reaffirmed the support of President Bola Ahmed Tinubu for peace and security initiatives across Kogi and Nigeria.
He commended the National Security Adviser and the Service Chiefs for their coordinated efforts in implementing the President’s security strategies.
Crediblenewsng.com
